White-throated Sparrow

(Zonotrichia albicollis)

Where: Richmond, VA • Glidewell Rd.

Notes: All but a few of the "White-throats" in my area have migrated north for the breeding season finally. It seems like they hung around a little bit longer that usual this year, but maybe that is just be my imagination. When they molt into their breeding plumage, their appearance changes only a little. But the purity of and contrast of their black and white head stripes, accompanied by the brilliance of their yellow lore patches, just above their beak, gives them a renewed, crisp look. Their slow whistling calls are heard less often with each passing day. Soon they will all be gone form this area until next fall.